Traders of agro-produces, on Thursday, protested against amendment to APMC Act by closing shops in Yeshwanthpura APMC yard. Traders alleged that the amendment bill has been passed in the legislature without allowing it for proper discussion in the legislative council.

They alleged that the amendment is against the interest of farmers and it will increase suicide of farmers. Chairman, Internal Trade and APMC Committee of FKCCI, RC Lahoti and other traders met Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy and appealed him to withdraw the amendment.

According to Mr Lahoti, the chief minister assured him that he would convene a meeting with traders in two-three days regarding the issue.

Later addressing a press conference Mr Lahoti said that the government has brought the amendment only to please multi-national companies.

With the implementation of the amendment multi-national companies can enter into agro-produce marketing sector.

He demanded that the government should not allow private markets to come up within a radius of 75 km from the existing government approved APMC yards.

The government should also increase infrastructure in APMC yards, he added.